Japan
Japan passed the AI Promotion Act in May 2025, taking an innovation-first path that is lighter than the EU. The law sets principles and lets the government research cases where AI infringes people's rights and respond with guidance and advice, and it carries no penalties. The emphasis is on encouraging adoption and coordination, with existing privacy and sector law filling the gaps. The Cabinet adopted the first AI Basic Plan under the Act in December 2025 and a second plan in July 2026.
Key points
- The AI Promotion Act (Act No. 53 of 2025) was approved by Japan's parliament on May 28, 2025, took partial effect on June 4, 2025, and has been fully in force since September 1, 2025.
- It is principle-based and non-punitive, favoring guidance over fines.
- The government can research cases where AI infringes people's rights and respond with guidance, advice, and information.
- The Cabinet adopted the first AI Basic Plan under the Act on December 23, 2025 and the second AI Basic Plan on July 14, 2026.
- Existing personal-information and sector laws continue to apply to AI. A July 2026 amendment to the personal-information law will ease consent rules for data used in AI development once it takes effect, by July 2028 at the latest.
Laws and instruments
Act on the Promotion of Research, Development and Utilization of AI (AI Promotion Act)
Framework law establishing principles for AI development and use, government coordination through an AI Strategic Headquarters, and cooperation duties for businesses, with no penalties.
AI Basic Plan
The government's statutory plan for AI policy under the Act, balancing innovation with risk management and coordinating domestic and international measures. The Cabinet reviews it in principle every year; the July 2026 document is published in English as Japan's Second AI Basic Plan.
Amendment to the Act on the Protection of Personal Information (2026)
Lets businesses provide and obtain personal data without consent when it is used only to create statistical information, which can include AI development, subject to safeguards. It also introduces administrative surcharges for serious violations.
Timeline
- May 28, 2025AI Promotion Act approved by the Diet.
- June 4, 2025Act promulgated and partly in force.
- September 1, 2025Act fully in force; AI Strategic Headquarters established.
- December 19, 2025AI Strategic Headquarters adopts non-binding guidelines on appropriate AI development and use.
- December 23, 2025Cabinet adopts the first AI Basic Plan.
- July 10, 2026Diet passes amendments to the personal-information law, including a consent exception that can cover AI development.
- July 14, 2026Cabinet adopts the second AI Basic Plan.
Who it applies to
Broad application to AI developers and users in Japan, implemented through principles and guidance rather than binding prohibitions.
Penalties
No penalties; the government relies on guidance, advice, and cooperation duties.
Common questions
Does Japan have a comprehensive AI law?
What are the penalties for AI violations in Japan?
Who does AI regulation in Japan apply to?
Artificial Intelligence Regulations, "AI Regulation in Japan," reviewed October 26, 2026, https://artificialintelligenceregulations.com/jurisdictions/japan.html.
Entries state the position as of the review date and link to the primary text for verification.